M Volleyball

Men’s Volleyball Reaches Out to Youth at YWCA of Bristol

* credit: YWCA of Bristol

Dec 07, 2012

King Men's Volleyball gave back to the community by teaching and supporting young boys and girls playing volleyball at the YWCA of Bristol.

BRISTOL, Tenn. – The King men's volleyball team helped with the YWCA of Bristol, Tenn. by providing help with a league for over 100 youngsters aged 6-12 during September and October. The kids met with the team twice a week playing matches and receiving instruction from players and coaches.

Head Coach Ryan Booher was a prominent figure at a local junior volleyball club, Northeast Tennessee Volleyball Club (NETVC), which is headquartered at the YWCA of Bristol. This is the third time Booher and his team have helped with the league and his team has assisted with the league each year he has been the head coach.

"Our players realize how much of an effect they have on a younger child in terms of being role models," stated Booher. "The youth really looks up to our players and come to a lot of the volleyball matches. We are happy to work with the YWCA as they have been a great supporter of volleyball over the years."

Graduate assistant coach Justin Dobson summed up how much Booher appreciates this community. "Coach Booher made it a mission when he took the position as head coach of the King men's volleyball team, to give back to the community he loves and cherishes, said Dobson"

The facilities manager of the YWCA of Bristol, Patty Bailey, was excited to have King Volleyball help out with the league again. "They were very patient in working with the kids as when it comes to teaching volleyball skills, there is a lot of repetitive drills involved," stated Bailey.

Dobson further stated, "I saw growth from the children, which would be obvious, but also a significant level of personal growth of our players."

Bailey also said that six or seven boys participated in the league.

We are just trying to give back to community and promote volleyball, especially the men's side, to make it more prominent in the Tri-Cities area," said Booher. "We plan to help the league every year in the fall."

The team began its community service in September and consistently participated as officials, coaches, and supporters of the youth players on Monday evenings and Saturday mornings. Tornado players and coaches continued the effort to teach the game to young participants through October.

The men's volleyball team opens their season on Jan. 10 when they host Mount Olive College in Conference Carolinas competition.